Ronnie Coleman graduated cum laude from Grambling State University (GSU) in 1986 with a B.S degree in accounting[citation needed]. While attending Grambling State University Coleman also played football as a middle linebacker with the GSU Tigers under coach Eddie Robinson. After graduation, Coleman became a police officer in Arlington, Texas. Coleman's fellow officer Gustavo Arlotta suggested he attend the Metroflex gym, owned by amateur bodybuilder Brian Dobson. Dobson offered Coleman a free lifetime membership if he would allow him to train Coleman for the upcoming Mr. Texas bodybuilding competition that year.